Don't be afraid of Halloween wines

As for stemware, one glass per person will suffice, but be sure to have a pitcher of water available so your guests can stay hydrated and rinse their glasses between wines. An assortment of cheese, crackers and light bites can round out the party refreshments.

To really make things interesting, trick your guests and serve the wines incognito by covering the bottles with foil or paper, then awarding a treat to the person who correctly identifies the most. You also can make your wine tasting party a group effort and invite your friends to bring a bottle. Each person can present his or her wine along with a story of why it was selected. A prize can be awarded to the best tasting wine or the selection that most fit the given criteria.

Wines with funky labels and evil-sounding names also can be a flavorful way to add an extra dose of excitement and fright to your party. Here is my list of Halloween-worthy sips.

Vampire pinot noir 
France, $10
To be enjoyed only after the sun goes down.

Ghost Pines cabernet sauvignon
California, $20
An experience that will linger with you long after the last sip.

Charles Smith Wines The Velvet Devil merlot 
Washington, $13
If you drink more than your share, you can always say the devil made you do it.

Talbott Sleepy Hollow Vineyards pinot noir 
California, $32
Luscious flavors of black cherries and spice will make you lose your head.

Owen Roe Sinister Hand 
Washington, $25
Don't be surprised if this robust and fruit-forward blend of grenache, syrah and mourvedre reaches out and pulls at your taste buds.